January signing Michel is set to be handed a start for Birmingham City as they make their second trip to Portsmouth in four days on Tuesday night (Portsmouth 11/8, Birmingham 2/1, draw 9/4 on the match coupon).

Blues boss Alex McLeish is hoping for an improved showing following Saturday’s 2-0 FA Cup defeat at Fratton Park and will give the signing from Sporting Gijon, used mainly as a substitute so far, the chance to impress from the start on the south coast (Michel a 25/1 shot to score first).

McLeish is planning other changes as well as he looks for a reaction from his players as they continue to chase European qualification this season.

The visitors have no fresh injury worries to contend with ahead of the game.

Portsmouth will be without John Utaka (groin), Hassan Yebda (knee) and Kevin-Prince Boateng (ankle) as the cash-strapped club look for an impressive third straight win.

Aaron Mokoena is doubtful with a knee injury while Ricardo Rocha is suspended for Avram Grant’s side.